Purusing High Energy Physics (research)

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the intersection of electrical engineering and high energy physics, particularly focusing on how an undergraduate student in electrical engineering can pursue interests in high energy physics theory and experiment. The discussion includes queries about course options, self-teaching, and potential research problems relevant to both fields.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster, Vivek, expresses a strong interest in high energy physics while pursuing a degree in electrical engineering and seeks advice on how to integrate these interests.
  • Vivek mentions self-teaching various subjects including mathematical methods and quantum mechanics, indicating a proactive approach to learning.
  • There is a query about active problems in high energy physics that could be explored at the undergraduate level without extensive coursework.
  • Some participants suggest that the discussion belongs in a specific forum dedicated to high energy physics, indicating a potential disagreement about the appropriateness of the thread's placement.
  • One participant questions why Vivek does not consider switching to a physics undergraduate program, suggesting an alternative path to pursue his interests.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach for Vivek to pursue high energy physics while remaining in electrical engineering. There are differing opinions on the relevance of the thread's placement and the feasibility of switching programs.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a variety of perspectives on interdisciplinary study and the challenges of integrating interests in high energy physics with an electrical engineering curriculum. There are no settled conclusions regarding the best path forward for Vivek.

maverick280857
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Hello all

This thread is a continuation of my previous thread (https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=122582) where some of my queries about physics curriculum at the undergraduate level were answered.

Basic intro: I am getting into a Bachelors program in Electrical Engineering at IIT Kanpur (India) but my interests are in the field of high energy (particle) physics theory + experiment. I am teaching myself mathematical methods, electromagnetic theory, special relativity, quantum mechanics and also reading Griffiths' elementary particles out of interest and I am dead sure now that my interests lie in research/academia in these areas. I am interested in some areas of electrical engineering as well, such as semiconductor devices and computer vision. Having 'researched' course options (In an EE system, we are allowed to take a finite number of electives from other departments, so you cannot take all courses.), grad school entrance requirements etc, I have figured out that after EE, apart from GRE and/or other test requirements, recommendations, etc. one has to take additional courses in physics which might have been left out at the undergraduate level. If this is not possible, one might have to indulge in a self-teaching adventure to pick up things.

But my query is: staying in EE, how can one pursue interests in high energy physics apart from courses? What are the active problems that can be at least thought of at an undergraduate level without too much exposure to courses? Anything that overlaps with EE?

I would appreciate if any high-energy/particle physicists or anyone knowledgeable in this area of physics could respond to this thread...

Thanks in advance...

Cheers
Vivek
 
Physics news on Phys.org
No, because it belongs here. The High energy physics forum is restricted to the discussion of actual subject matter.

Zz.
 
ZapperZ said:
No, because it belongs here. The High energy physics forum is restricted to the discussion of actual subject matter.

Zz.

Okay then someone please respond to it :smile:
 
Why don't you just go into the physics undergrad program?
 

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